afflicted by

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "afflicted by" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe someone or something that is suffering from a particular problem, condition, or disease. Example: "The community was afflicted by a severe drought that lasted for several months."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Five million Americans are afflicted by the disease.

The New York Times

Others are afflicted by various gastrointestinal illnesses.

The New York Times

It is also afflicted by Roosevelt envy.

The New York Times

Body odour is no joke for those afflicted by it.

The Economist

Particularly afflicted by gravity's curse is the neck.

The New York Times

(Poor Tom Sawyer was afflicted by it in the classroom).

The New Yorker

Afflicted by cancer, Torres Bodet took his own life.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They may indeed have been afflicted by a sudden incapacity.

The Economist

These opponents seem to be afflicted by two fundamental misconceptions.

The New York Times

Even the celebrity class has been afflicted by power loss.

The New York Times

Even Washington and Jefferson were afflicted by second-termitis.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "afflicted by", ensure you clearly specify what is causing the affliction. For instance, "The town was afflicted by a severe drought" provides more context than simply saying "The town was afflicted".

Common error

Avoid using "afflicted by" for minor inconveniences or temporary discomfort. It should be reserved for significant and lasting negative impacts, whether physical, emotional, or societal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "afflicted by" functions as a passive verb construction, indicating that the subject is receiving a negative action or condition. Ludwig AI confirms that it describes something or someone is suffering a particular problem or disease. Examples show its use in describing various ailments and conditions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

34%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "afflicted by" is a versatile phrase used to describe the state of being negatively impacted by a condition, disease, or problem. Ludwig AI analysis indicates the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently found in news media and scientific contexts. It's best used for significant negative impacts and should be avoided for minor issues. When writing, be sure to clearly specify the cause of the affliction. Related phrases like ""suffering from"" or ""burdened by"" can offer alternative ways to convey the same meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stricken with

Highlights the sudden and forceful impact of the affliction, emphasizing the unexpected nature of the suffering.

suffering from

Expresses a state of experiencing pain or distress due to a condition, similar to being afflicted but can apply to emotional or mental states as well.

plagued by

Highlights a persistent and troublesome issue, emphasizing the annoyance and difficulty caused by the affliction.

burdened by

Implies being weighed down by something, often a responsibility or problem, which shares the sense of being negatively affected.

beset with

Indicates being persistently and severely affected by something, often implying a sense of being overwhelmed.

beset by

Suggests being constantly attacked or harassed by something, conveying a sense of ongoing struggle against the affliction.

troubled by

Indicates being disturbed or worried by something, suggesting a state of unease similar to affliction but less severe.

hampered by

Indicates being hindered or impeded by something, focusing on the limitations imposed by the affliction.

cursed with

Implies a sense of fate or misfortune, suggesting that the affliction is an inescapable and negative aspect of one's existence.

impacted by

Highlights that the condition has a strong effect, both physically and/or psychologically, on the subject of the phrase.

FAQs

What does "afflicted by" mean?

"Afflicted by" means to be negatively affected or troubled by something, often a disease, problem, or condition. It implies suffering or distress caused by that thing.

How can I use "afflicted by" in a sentence?

You can use "afflicted by" to describe someone or something experiencing a negative condition. For example, "The population was "stricken by" a mysterious illness."

What are some alternatives to "afflicted by"?

Alternatives include "suffering from", "troubled by", "plagued by", or "burdened by". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "afflicted by" for emotional or mental issues?

Yes, "afflicted by" can be used for emotional or mental issues, such as "He was afflicted by anxiety" or "She was afflicted by grief". However, consider alternative phrasings like "struggling with" or "dealing with" for a less severe connotation.